Dear Decoder:
Recently, the sudden removal of in-game tracks in PLATiNA :: LAB has caused distress, unease, and disappointment among our players. In response, following a deep internal review and discussions between the publisher, XD, and the developer, HIGH-END Games, we wish to provide a formal explanation and a sincere apology to all affected players.
Clarification on Recent Track Adjustments and Communication Issues
We want to be transparent with the community: the initial request to remove the tracks was made by the publisher XD, to the development team. As the publisher, XD failed to fully evaluate the impact this operational decision would have on the gaming experience of our global players, as well as the immense pressure it would place on the development team.
During the process of pushing forward with this content adjustment, the HIGH-END Games development team expressed their concerns regarding the sudden removal of tracks without prior notice, as well as the subsequent communication policy of not responding to player inquiries.Meanwhile, the publisher failed to adequately listen to and address these concerns. XD proceeded with the adjustment without providing any advance notice to the players, and failed to respond to player inquiries in a timely manner after the incident occurred.
For this, XD assumes the corresponding responsibility and offers its sincerest apologies to all PLATiNA :: LAB players affected by this incident, as well as to the HIGH-END Games development team, who endured immense pressure as a result.
Adjustments to Future Operations and Decision-Making Mechanisms
To fundamentally resolve the issues exposed by this incident, both studios have agreed to readjust and clarify the boundaries of our future cooperation model and decision-making. We believe that only with a clear division of responsibilities can we better safeguard the interests of our players and the future of the game.
Therefore, we are officially announcing the following adjustments to the publishing strategy for PLATiNA :: LAB:
Global Regions Outside of China: Moving forward, HIGH-END Games will independently lead the publishing strategy and game content direction for all global regions outside of China. XD will fully respect the development team's independent decision-making authority.
Chinese Region: XD will continue to focus on the publishing and localized operations of PLATiNA :: LAB within the Chinese market.
We deeply understand that for a rhythm game, exceptional music content and the passion poured into it by a wide array of creators remain an irreplaceable and precious foundation. PLATiNA :: LAB embodies the hard work and dedication of the development team, our collaborating artists, all of our crowdfunding backers, and players. We will firmly remember the blow this incident has dealt to the trust of everyone. Taking this operational adjustment as a fresh start, we will devote all our energy into the upcoming 1.0 release to present players with a high-quality gaming experience.
We sincerely apologize once again for the recent turmoil. We want to thank every player who took the time to express their opinions, criticisms, and disappointment to us, and who continues to care about PLATiNA :: LAB to this day.
XD & HIGH-END Games